Summary
- Under the hood, the Surface Laptop 3 offers a range of processor options, from the Intel Core i5 to the i7, providing ample power for everyday tasks and demanding applications.
- The Surface Go 2 has a more limited selection of ports, with only a USB-C port and a microSD card reader.
- The Surface Laptop 3 offers a premium experience with its superior build quality, display, and performance, while the Surface Go 2 provides a more affordable option for those seeking a compact and versatile device.
Microsoft’s Surface lineup has long been a force to be reckoned with in the premium laptop market. The Surface Laptop 3 and Surface Go 2 are two of the most popular options, offering a range of features and prices. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two devices to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop 3 exudes elegance with its sleek aluminum chassis and premium Alcantara fabric keyboard deck. Its thin and lightweight profile makes it highly portable, while the durable construction ensures longevity. In contrast, the Surface Go 2 is more compact and lightweight, featuring a magnesium alloy body and a polycarbonate kickstand. Its smaller size makes it ideal for those on the go.
Display
The Surface Laptop 3 boasts a stunning 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display with a high resolution and vibrant colors. It supports touch input and Surface Pen compatibility for a versatile user experience. The Surface Go 2, on the other hand, has a smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense display that offers a decent resolution but lacks the same level of vibrancy and touch functionality.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop 3 offers a range of processor options, from the Intel Core i5 to the i7, providing ample power for everyday tasks and demanding applications. The Surface Go 2, however, is powered by a more modest Intel Pentium or Core m3 processor, which may struggle with intensive workloads. However, both devices offer solid performance for basic computing and productivity tasks.
Storage and Memory
The Surface Laptop 3 comes with a variety of storage and memory configurations, ranging from 128GB to 1TB of SSD storage and up to 16GB of RAM. The Surface Go 2 offers more limited options, with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of storage and up to 8GB of RAM.
Battery Life
The Surface Laptop 3 delivers impressive battery life, lasting up to 11.5 hours on a single charge. The Surface Go 2, with its smaller battery, provides a more modest runtime of up to 10 hours. Both devices support fast charging, so you can quickly power them up when needed.
Connectivity and Features
The Surface Laptop 3 includes a full complement of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and a Surface Connect port. It also features built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for fast and stable wireless connectivity. The Surface Go 2 has a more limited selection of ports, with only a USB-C port and a microSD card reader. However, it supports LTE connectivity as an optional feature.
Price and Value
The Surface Laptop 3 starts at $999 for the base model, while the Surface Go 2 starts at $399. The price varies depending on the configuration and features selected. The Surface Laptop 3 offers a premium experience with its superior build quality, display, and performance, while the Surface Go 2 provides a more affordable option for those seeking a compact and versatile device.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Laptop 3 and Surface Go 2 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize performance, a premium design, and a large display, the Surface Laptop 3 is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a compact, affordable device with basic computing capabilities, the Surface Go 2 is a solid option.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Which device has a better display?
A1: The Surface Laptop 3 offers a larger, higher-resolution display with vibrant colors and touch functionality.
Q2: Which device is more powerful?
A2: The Surface Laptop 3 offers a range of more powerful processor options compared to the Surface Go 2.
Q3: Which device has longer battery life?
A3: The Surface Laptop 3 offers slightly longer battery life than the Surface Go 2.
Q4: Which device is more portable?
A4: The Surface Go 2 is more compact and lightweight than the Surface Laptop 3, making it more portable.
Q5: Which device is more affordable?
A5: The Surface Go 2 starts at a lower price point than the Surface Laptop 3.